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Professor Nalini Joshi AO, an Indian-origin mathematician, has been named the 2025 New South Wales (NSW) Scientist of the Year.
This marks the first time a mathematician has claimed the state’s highest scientific honour, presented at Government House in Sydney on November 19, 2025 as part of the NSW Premier’s Prizes for Science.
Joshi, the Payne-Scott Professor and Chair of Applied Mathematics at the University of Sydney, is renowned for her pioneering work in integrable systems. Her research delves into complex mathematical patterns that define phenomena from climate science to fibre optics.
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Currently, she is applying her expertise to quantum cryptography, tackling the vulnerabilities quantum computers pose to global cybersecurity.
“Twenty years ago we did not have smartphones. Now we rely on them for almost every part of our lives, from paying for coffee to checking our bank balances,” Joshi said in a statement. “In 20 years, we will be walking around with quantum-enabled devices filled with quantum money. But our industry base has very little knowledge of how to protect us in that future, and Australia has less than a dozen citizens with the expertise needed to help them.”
She stressed that mathematics is central to securing our quantum future.
JOSHI’S SPECTACULAR EDUCATION
A University of Sydney graduate who earned the University Medal, Joshi completed her doctorate at Princeton University.
She became the first woman appointed as Professor of Mathematics at Sydney and has championed diversity in Stem, mentoring young researchers and earning the 2018 Eureka Prize for Outstanding Mentorship. Her accolades include being an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2016, a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science, and the first Australian Vice-President of the International Mathematical Union.
The awards also celebrated other University of Sydney scholars: Professor Anita Ho-Baillie for advancements in perovskite solar cells, and Professor Paul Keall for innovations in cancer therapy.
Joshi’s triumph highlights the global impact of Indian talent in science.
This recognition not only elevates Joshi’s contributions but also inspires aspiring scientists in India and beyond, proving that mathematical innovation knows no borders.
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